Fohhn FOCUS Series User manual

User Manual
FOCUS-SERIES
FOCUS Venue
FV-100
FV-200
Version 1.0 / June 2019
Copyright by Fohhn Audio AG 2019 all rights reserved.
Please read this user manual through carefully before putting the system into operation and keep
it for future reference.

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Contents
1. Introduction and General Information ....................................................................................... 4
1.1 Safety Instructions ......................................................................................................................... 4
1.1.1 Explanation of erms .............................................................................................................. 4
1.1.2 General Safety Instructions .................................................................................................... 5
1.1.3 Electrical Safety Information .................................................................................................. 6
1.1.4 Acoustic Safety Information ................................................................................................... 7
1.1.5 Connections and wiring .......................................................................................................... 7
1.2 Operating Conditions ............................................................................................................. 8
1.3 Storage and ransportation ................................................................................................... 9
2. The Product ............................................................................................................................ 10
2.1 Product Description ..................................................................................................................... 10
2.2 Product Identification .................................................................................................................. 12
2.3 Delivery and Unpacking ............................................................................................................... 13
2.4 Accessories .................................................................................................................................. 14
3. Mechanical Setup and Rigging ................................................................................................. 17
3.1 he Focus Venue Rigging and Interlock System (ILS) .................................................................. 17
3.2 Rigging and landing a Focus Venue system ................................................................................. 19
3.2.1 Flying frame FF-FV-100/200, number of arrayable modules ............................................... 19
3.2.2 Forward inclination of a Focus Venue system ...................................................................... 22
3.2.3 Safety chains ......................................................................................................................... 23
3.2.4 Flying from the hook of a crane or chain hoist .................................................................... 24
3.2.5 Landing an array ................................................................................................................... 31
3.3 Rain cover for connector panels.................................................................................................. 31
3.4 Rain hood for the top of an array ................................................................................................ 34
4. Wiring and software setup ...................................................................................................... 36
4.1 Wiring .......................................................................................................................................... 36
4.2 General configuration ................................................................................................................. 40
4.3 Hardware and software requirements ........................................................................................ 43
4.4 Downloading and Installing Fohhn Audio Soft ............................................................................ 43
4.5 Fohhn-Net ID Allocation ....................................................................................................... 44
4.6 Identifying Connected Systems ................................................................................................... 45
4.7 Renaming Devices / Channels ..................................................................................................... 47
4.8 Graphically Arranging the Loudspeaker Systems ........................................................................ 47
4.9 Combining modules to a speaker stack ....................................................................................... 48
4.10 Loading Loudspeaker Presets .................................................................................................... 49
4.11 Further Options ......................................................................................................................... 49
4.11.1 Auto Power Save ................................................................................................................ 49

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4.11.2 Password Lock .................................................................................................................... 50
4.11.3 ilt Sensor ........................................................................................................................... 50
4.12 Adjusting the level relation within an array .............................................................................. 51
5. Control via Fohhn Audio Soft .................................................................................................. 52
5.1 Beam Steering – the functional principle .................................................................................... 52
5.1.1 Side Lobe Free echnology ................................................................................................... 53
5.1.2 wo Beam echnology ( wo Beam Mode) .......................................................................... 54
5.1.3 Acoustic Centre .................................................................................................................... 55
5.2 Setup in the Beam Steering View ................................................................................................ 56
5.3 Adjustment of DSP Functions ...................................................................................................... 58
5.4 Using Convertible Dispersion echnology (CD ) ......................................................................... 59
5.5 Saving Projects ............................................................................................................................ 60
6. Technical Documentation ....................................................................................................... 61
6.1 echnical Specifications............................................................................................................... 61
6.2 echnical Drawings ...................................................................................................................... 64
6.3 Pin Assignments and Cable Lengths ............................................................................................ 68
6.3.1 CA cable Fohhn net ............................................................................................................. 68
6.3.2 CA cable AIREA net ............................................................................................................. 69
6.3.3 Audio cable AES/EBU ............................................................................................................ 69
7. Troubleshooting ..................................................................................................................... 70
8. Service and Repair .................................................................................................................. 71
8.1 Maintenance Measures ............................................................................................................... 71
9. Glossary ................................................................................................................................. 72
10. Appendix .............................................................................................................................. 74
10.1 Environmental Information ....................................................................................................... 74
10.2 CE Marking and Declaration of Conformity............................................................................... 74
10.3 rademarks ................................................................................................................................ 74
10.4 Protection Classes and Protection ypes .................................................................................. 74
10.5 Disclaimer and Copyright .......................................................................................................... 75
10.5.1 Disclaimer ........................................................................................................................... 75
10.5.2 Copyright ............................................................................................................................ 75
10.6 Contact Address ........................................................................................................................ 75

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1. Introduction and General Information
Congratulations on the purchase of your Fohhn® Focus Venue system. As with all our Focus-Series
systems, Focus Venue loudspeakers are equipped with the very latest Fohhn Beam Steering
technology. his allows users to adjust the system’s vertical beam dispersion characteristics in real
time, enabling optimum sound coverage – even in the most acoustically challenging venues.
All the functions of a Focus Venue system can be controlled using a single piece of software, Fohhn
Audio Soft. All Focus Venue systems are available in both mobile and fixed installation variants.
In order to benefit from all the advantages of your Focus Venue system and to guarantee smooth
operation, please read the following user instructions carefully before putting the system into
operation and keep this manual for future reference!
1.1 Safety Instructions
Please read the following safety instructions in their entirety before putting this device into
operation. Keep these instructions near the device at all times. Reading the user manual does not
replace the need for awareness of and compliance with currently applicable national safety
regulations and standards, or the observance of safe on-site working methods.
All information and technical specifications published here are based on data that was available at
the time of publication. We expressly reserve the right to make any changes.
1.1.1 Explanation of Terms
Danger!
This signal word indicates a hazard with a high risk level, which, if not avoided, could result in
death or serious injury.
Warning!
This signal word indicates a hazard with a medium risk level, which, if not avoided, could result in
death or serious injury.
Caution!
This signal word indicates a hazard with a lower risk level, which, if not avoided, could result in
minor or moderate injury.

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1.1.2 General Safety Instructions
Danger!
To avoid danger to life or limb, please ensure that all personnel involved in installing or
deconstructing such a system have read and understood the contents of this manual.
All personnel should be aware of local regulations concerning workplace safety. It is strongly
recommended to wear suitable helmets and safety footwear during the rigging procedure.
The information presented here should, however, be regarded as accompanying advice and it does
not affect the ultimate responsibility of the user to ensure safe on-site operation of a Focus Venue
system.
Warning!
To prevent injury caused by a collapsing system,
-this device must be securely mounted in accordance with the rigging instructions and current
safety guidelines. Only use the specially designed Fohhn® mounting accessories or
components, which are explicitly specified in the rigging instructions.
-this device must be regularly inspected for any signs of wear or loosening of the rigging
connections.
-it is necessary to ensure that the mounting points on a building, scaffolding or truss structure
have sufficient load-bearing capacity and are structurally viable.
-all components of a hung (i.e. “flown”) device must be visually inspected before installation.
Any component showing missing parts, deformations, cracks, corrosion, fractured welds or
other signs of wear must not be used under any circumstances.
-the load limit of any component that will be used for system suspension (including shackles,
chains and hoists) must not be exceeded. In order to comply with local safety regulations,
these load limits may, in certain circumstances due to underlying safety factors (operating
ratios), need to be recalculated and, if necessary, reduced.
All components required for the mounting or suspension of a Focus Venue system have been
designed and constructed in accordance and compliance with the following regulations that are
applicable in Germany: DGUV V17 (formerly BGV-C1), DGUV I215-313 (formerly BGI 810-3), DIN EN
1993-1-1 and DIN EN 1999-1-1.
he operating ratio against non-elastic deformation (Yield strength) is equal to or better than 5:1, the
operating ratio against fracture (tensile strength) is equal to or better than 7:1 for an array with a
gross weight of 1300 kg. If the system is to be used in countries that have stricter requirements, the
permissible load capacity must be reduced accordingly.
Caution!
To avoid injury, the device must be stored, installed and operated well away from children.
To avoid injuries, the device must be taken out of operation, marked appropriately and protected
against accidental use if it
-shows visible signs of damage
-appears to contain loose parts

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-is not working correctly
-has been subjected to poor transportation conditions (e.g. with unsuitable packaging)
If necessary, please contact your Fohhn® dealer and the transportation company immediately.
Contact details can be found in the appendix to this user manual.
1.1.3 Electrical Safety Information
Focus Venue systems are Protection Class 1 appliances. hey are built and certified in accordance
with the VDE safety measures for electronic devices and, safety-wise, leave our factory in perfect
condition. he devices comply with all currently applicable EMC directives: Confirmed by the
attached CE marking.
The relevant guidelines can be found in the appendix to this user manual!
Warning!
To minimize the risk of electric shock
-the mains plug grounding pin must never be separated and under no circumstances should
the plug be taped up.
-the device must only be connected to a professionally tested shockproof socket.
-the amplifier housing must never be opened. It does not contain any components that can
be repaired by the user. In the case of a defect, please consult qualified service personnel
and/or the dealer from whom you purchased the system.
Please also ensure that the local mains supply voltage matches the power supply voltage specified
on the device.
To minimize the risk of an electric shock or fire,
-the device must not be subjected to moisture / wet conditions for a long period of time.
-containers filled with liquid (e.g. beverage containers) must not be placed on the device.
-ventilation slots must not be covered with objects (e.g. protective rain covers).
-the device must not be subjected to excessive heat, sunshine, fire or similar.
-no open sources of flame (e.g. pyrotechnics) must be placed on the device.
Caution!
To avoid damaging the device, do not leave the power cable plugged in if the device is not going to
be used for a while. (Remove the plug from the mains socket in order to completely disconnect the
device!)

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1.1.4 Acoustic Safety Information
Focus Venue loudspeaker systems are capable of generating very high sound pressure levels, which
can cause irreparable damage to hearing.
Warning!
To avoid potential hearing impairment, never stand in close proximity (4 metre or less) to a device
while it is in operation.
To prevent both hearing impairment and damage to the device, avoid the following while the
device is in operation:
-acoustic feedback
-high powered, permanently distorted signals
-impulse noises, which may occur when some other device in the signal chain is switched on
or off, connected or disconnected from the system, e.g. a mixing desk, audio matrix or
controller.
1.1.5 Connections and wiring
Focus Venue loudspeaker systems have the following connectors located at the top connection
panel:
•Audio and control data In (AIREA, etherCON)
•Audio In/Out (AES/EBU, XLR)
•Control data In/Out (Fohhn-Net, etherCON)
•Power supply In (powerCON)
At the bottom connection panel:
•Audio and control data Out (AIREA, etherCON)
•Audio Out (AES/EBU, XLR)
•Control data Out (Fohhn-Net, etherCON)
•Power supply Out (powerCON)
For further details, please refer to the section on wiring in this user manual (see Chapter 4)
Warning!
Please note the following when wiring up your system:
-Check that your cable is working faultlessly and only use cables with a sufficient cross
section.
-Only use cabling- and connector materials that meet professional standards.
-Only use properly shielded cables and plugs for the audio and data connections.
-Only use power cables with a fully intact grounding pin
-Lay and secure the cabling in a way that it cannot be damaged by tools or by the
loudspeakers itself or its flying accessories.
-Protect any laid cables from unnecessary traction.
Wiring of loudspeakers should only be carried out by suitably qualified personnel!

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Important: o enable communication between a Windows PC with Fohhn Audio Soft installed and
the Focus Venue loudspeaker system, a Fohhn® network adapter (e.g. NA-11 Fohhn-Net USB
Adapter, NA-3 or NA-4 Fohhn-Net Ethernet Adapter) or a connection to a Fohhn® AIREA output is
required.
More information can be found in Chapter 4 of this user manual!
1.2 Operating Conditions
Caution!
Please note the following when operating your Focus Venue system:
-The permitted ambient temperature of the device during operation ranges from 0 °C to
+40 °C. A short period of use outside this temperature range is possible, but not advisable.
-The device is intended for use in a dry environment with normal levels of dust and
humidity in the air.
-Never expose the device to any aggressive chemical fluids or vapours.
-Always make sure that heat can be dissipated via the rear surface of the device enclosure.
-Always make sure that the device is well ventilated. In order to ensure adequate cooling,
the device must not be covered with towels or cloths. Avoid letting the enclosure become
hot through exposure to sunlight or strong spotlights.
-In order to guarantee sufficient cooling for the device, the following minimum gaps must
be maintained: left/right side >5 cm, back >10 cm, top >10 cm.
-Never expose the device to strong vibration.
Information on Abnormal Operation:
If the permissible operating temperature is too high (over 75 °C), the device will shut down. As soon
as the temperature returns to within the normal operating range, the device will automatically
power up again.
he temperature of the Focus Venue loudspeaker system will be displayed in Fohhn Audio Soft.
Shutdown is getting more likely if the product is exposed to direct sunlight or very high
environmental temperatures. Reliable operation is only guaranteed in compliance with the
permissible ambient temperature range.
Warning!
The device should be immediately inspected by a Fohhn Audio AG approved service partner if
-the mains power socket is damaged,
-a foreign body or liquid has got into the interior of the device,
-the device is not working normally i.e. it is showing marked differences in performance
-the device is damaged (e.g. after a fall).

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1.3 Storage and Transportation
Please note the following:
-he device should only be transported on its dedicated transport dolly or wheelboard.
-Store the device in a dry environment, with a constant ambient temperature, in order to
avoid condensation.
-he permitted ambient temperature range for storing the device is -10 °C to +70 °C.
-Due to fluctuations in temperature during transportation and storage, condensation may
start to build up on the surface of the device. Before operating the device, examine its
surface for any signs of moisture. If this is the case, allow the unpacked device to acclimatise
for two hours in the environmental temperature before using it.

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2. The Product
2.1 Product Description
Fohhn® Focus Venue loudspeaker systems, which form part of the Focus-Series, are active, modular
loudspeaker systems designed both for touring applications and fixed installation use.
he special feature of these systems is their integrated Beam Steering Technology: Using dedicated
control software, Fohhn Audio Soft, the systems’ vertical beam dispersion characteristics can be
intuitively controlled in real time and thereby optimally adjusted to suit the particular application.
Conventional mechanical curving, i.e. the physical adjustment of the line curvature is no longer
necessary, though in some cases mechanical inclination of a Focus Venue array may improve the
acoustical result.
The current version of the required Fohhn Audio Soft software can be downloaded free of charge
from www.fohhn.com
he following modules are available:
•FV-100 high frequency module
he high frequency module FV-100 is equipped with 8 pcs of 1,5” exit / 4” VC compression drivers, 8
pcs of 1” exit/1,75” VC compression drivers and a preceding Fohhn® Waveguide system. Each high
frequency driver is separately powered by a Class-D amplifier channel.
heir usable frequency range is 800 Hz to 3 kHz for the 1,5” drivers and 3 kHz to 20 kHz for the 1”
drivers. A sophisticated filter design allow for perfect phase alignment of the two ways at a crossover
steepness of 48 dB/oct. hus, virtually no comb filter effects occur between the two ways.
FV-100 are linkable to longer stacks in an array with other FV-100 and have to be used in
combination with one or more low-mid modules FV-200.

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•FV-200 low-mid module
he low-mid module FV-200 is equipped with 8 pcs of 10” / 2,5” VC long excursion cone speakers.
he chassis are driven in pairs by 4 Class-D amplifier channels. he frequency range here is 60 Hz to
800 Hz.
FV-200 are linkable to longer stacks in an array with other FV-200.
he FV-200 features the Fohhn Convertible Dispersion Technology (CDT): Its dispersion pattern is
remotely switchable via Fohhn Audio Soft between omnidirectional (with enhanced low end) or
cardioid (with rear sound attenuation)
o learn more about CD and its use, please refer to chapter 5.4
Brief overview of the modules:
Module
FV
-
100
FV
-
200
Components
8 x 1,5“/4” drivers
8 x 1”/1,75” drivers
8 x 10“/2,5” chassis
Amplifier channels
16 x
250
W, Class
-
D
4 x
1
k
W, Class
-
D
Frequency range
800 Hz
–
20 kHz
60 Hz
–
800 Hz
Frequency
range
800 Hz
–
20 kHz
60 Hz
–
800 Hz
Horizontal dispersion
90°
90° cardioid or
omnidirectional

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he modules can be acoustically and mechanically combined as required, in order to suit the
particular application and space situation. Long reach and optimal sound results can be achieved
even in acoustically difficult situations.
2.2 Product Identification
he Focus Venue module’s type designation can be found on the upper connection panel at the rear
side of the speaker. he individual modules can also be identified by their respective sizes:
•FV-100: 639 mm
•FV-200: 1276 mm

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2.3 Delivery and Unpacking
Every Focus Venue module is examined in accordance with the highest quality and safety standards
prior to despatch.
Please check your product carefully for any signs of transport damage and, in the event of any
damage having occurred, inform your dealer and the transportation company immediately. Please
also check that the packaging contains all the components belonging to the device.
Your Focus Venue system is delivered with the following:
•1 x three-part cable set for the electrical connection of two adjacent Focus Venue modules (
PowerCON for supply voltage, XLR for audio signal, RJ45/etherCON for Fohhn-Net network or
AIREA)
•1 x PowerCON mains cable
•1x manual
When unpacking the system, we recommend the following procedure:
I. Examine the packed product for any signs of transport damage.
II. Remove all packing material from the product.
III. Examine the product for any signs of transport damage. Don´t forget the bottom surface.
IV. If the product has been damaged, inform the transportation company immediately. Any
claim for transport damage must be made by the you, the consignee. Keep the packing
material for examination by the transportation company.

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2.4 Accessories
Setting up a Focus Venue module requires a Windows PC (Windows 7 or higher) with Fohhn Audio
Soft installed and a Fohhn® network adapter or – if connected via Fohhn AIREA – an AIREA breakout
box
Product ID
Article number
Description
NA
-
11
6115
-
00000
Fohhn
-
Net USB Adapter
NA
-
3
6104
-
00000
Fohhn
-
Net Ethernet Adapter
NA
-
4
6122
-
00000
Fohhn
-
Net Ethernet Adapter
ABX
-
2
1716
-
00000
Analogue NF and Fohhn
-
Net to AIREA converter
ABX-5
1719
-
00000
DAN E to AIREA converter and Fohhn
-
Net Ethernet
Adapter
AM
-
10
1710
-
00900
AIREA Master with 1x AES/EBU and 1x Fohhn
-
Net Input, 4x
AIREA Output
he following accessories are available:
Product ID
Article number
Description
FF
-
FV
-
100/200
8331
-
B0000
Flying frame with
a working load limit (
WLL
)
of 1,3 tons for
Focus Venue Arrays. 3 separate pickpoints for suspension
and safety.
DO
-
FV
-
100/200
8161
-
00000
ransport dolly for 2x FV
-
200 or 4x FV
-
100 or mixed
PB
-
FV
-
100/200
8335
-
00000
Pull back frame and downfill
adapter
RC
-
FV
-
Connect
8158
-
00000
Rain cover for con
nection panel, 2 pcs for both panels are
mandatory for outdoor use!
RC
-
FF
-
FV
-
100/200
8159
-
00000
Rain cover for flying frame and top of one vertical array of
Focus Venue, 3x shackles for suspension and safety
included. Recommended for outdoor use.
TC
-
FV
-
D
O
8320
-
B0000
Padded transport cover for a set of Focus Venue modules
on dolly (2x FV-200, 4x FV-100 or mixed)

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FF-FV-100/200
DO-FV-100/200
RC-FV-Connect

16
RC-FF-FV-100/200
TC-FV-DO

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3. Mechanical Setup and Rigging
3.1 The Focus Venue Rigging and Interlock System (ILS)
Each Focus Venue module has four suspension points at the top, each equipped with a recessible
steel latch and four respective slots for suspending further FV-modules at the bottom. he Fohhn ILS
rigging system connects latch and slot. It is spring-loaded, self-securing, easy to use and without any
loose parts like ball lock pins on steel cords.
Inside each cabinet are four steel flying tracks sustaining the weight and an aluminium frame to
brace every individual module against shearing and bending forces. hese structures carry the entire
system, which may have a weight of up to 1,3 tons.
Danger!
All four flying tracks have to be engaged at any time when rigging an array of Focus Venue
modules!

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o move the latch, a knurled-head screw acts as a handle and may be tightened as soon as the latch
is connected to the above rigging pin to avoid rattling noise at high SPL of the system.
A yellow tag on the latch indicates, that the latch is not connected to the respective slot in the upper
module or flying frame.
he ILS rigging system has to be disengaged before sliding the latch into its slot. o disengage the ILS,
turn the handle disk counterclockwise to the left end stop, pull it back – and thus the rigging pin -
against the spring and turn the disk clockwise to the right end stop, releasing the strain against the
spring. If disengaged, a yellow tag appears under the handle disk.
o engage the ILS, turn the disk counterclockwise again. he spring-loaded rigging pin snaps into its
locking position and secures automatically aginst accidental unlocking, the yellow tag is concealed.
Danger!
Always make sure, no yellow tag is visible at all four ILS catches before hoisting the system!

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3.2 Rigging and landing a Focus Venue system
3.2.1 Flying frame FF-FV-100/200, number of arrayable modules
o fly an array of Focus Venue modules, the flying frame FF-FV-100/200 is required.
Warning!
Using any other form of suspension is expressly forbidden!
Its load capacity is 1,3 tons, which is the limit for any possible array including cabling and accessories.
Since the weight of a FV-100 is 107kg and of an FV-200 is 135kg, a total number of 9 modules may
safely be suspended in any possible combination of FV-100 and FV-200.
If an FV-100 downfill adapter or a pull back frame/downfill adapter with Fohhn P -70 or other fill
systems is added, the number of cabinets has to be reduced accordingly.
he FF-FV-100/200 flying frame has four receptive slots for the four suspension latches of the top FV
module with quick release rigging pins, a central suspension rail with numbered holes and a number
of three adjustable rigging skids, each with a 4,75 to shackle and two 12mm quick release pins.
he plain surface of the frame faces to the front of the Focus Venue, the visible pins to the rear. It
comes with plastic feet to protect the surface of the FV cabinets. he rigging skids are stored in their
parking positions on the small rail inside the frame during transportation.
Danger!
Never try to use them for any purpose in their parking position!
o fasten a suspension latch to the frame, pull back the pin of the frame to the end stop while
pressing the central release button, unclamp the knurled-head screw of the latch and push it in
upmost position, then again press the release button of the pin and push the pin through the bores
of frame and latch until the ball bearings are visible and protruding well outside the bore in the
frame. Release the button.

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Danger!
Please note: Make sure all four latches of the top module are at the upper stop (no yellow tag
visible) and all four rigging pins are pushed through the frame, their ball bearings visible!
Otherwise it is not safe to hoist the system!